BALLARAT

 In 1851, the cry of “Gold!” shattered the tranquility of this pleasant, pastoral district. Within months, tent cities covered the hills and thousands of people were pouring in from around the world, eager to make their fortune. The gold rush petered out in the late 1870s. However, the two decades of wealth can still be seen in the lavish buildings, broad streets, ornate statuary and grand gardens. Today, Ballarat is Victoria’s largest inland city.

Panning for gold - Sovereign Hill, Ballarat, Victoria

Sovereign Hill is the gold fields’ living museum. Located on the outskirts of Ballarat, it offers visitors the chance to explore a unique period of Australia’s history. Blacksmiths, hoteliers, bakers and grocers in full period dress ply their trades on the main streets, amid the diggers’ huts, tents, old meeting places and the Chinese Village.